So often Valentine’s Day gets hyped up as a day for lovers only. It’s often seen as a day of romance, passion and sparks. Although romance can be one part of this day, it is certainly not the only part.
Valentine’s Day is a day to remember our loved ones—not just our romantic partners–all our loved ones. It’s a day to remind ourselves that we are part of a greater system than just ourselves. The everyday demands of life too often take us away from remembering what truly matters—love and relationships. Valentine’s Day is a reminder for us to stop and pay attention to those we care about.
Throughout the day today, stop and remember those people who have touched and continue to touch your life in a significant way. Think of small ways you can let them know how much they mean to you:
• Send an e-mail to your mentor.
• Call an old friend.
• Hug your children and tell them how much you love them and what a gift they are in your life.
• Thank your partner for being there for you through thick and thin.
• Call a sibling and let them know you care.
The options are endless. If someone has touched your life, reach back and touch theirs.
Stop and take notice of the love and relationships in your life. It takes only a moment, however that moment can make all the difference in a person’s life.Valentine’s Day is about relationships. Nourish yours so they will grow. Don’t feel down if you’re not in a romantic relationship, celebrate all the other relationships you have—including the one with yourself. If you’re not in a romantic relationship, treat yourself to dinner, go out with a friend, celebrate with your children, or settle down to a nice quiet evening alone and be thankful for all the people who have added to your life.Valentine’s Day is also a reminder for all of us to cherish our loved ones every day—not just on this one day. Treat your loved ones as though you love them. Cherish them, honor them and be a blessing in their lives just as you would like them to be a blessing in yours.
Challenge: Use today as a reminder of the importance of cherishing your loved ones—not just today but every day. Pause and take notice of the people in your life. Thank those who have added to it. (Note: Because this post is so pertinant to so many people at this time, I’ve chosen to re-print this past Valentine’s Day post).